Government Tightens Sugar Stock Limits

Key facts

• The central government tightened sugar stock limits for bulk consumers using more than 10 metric tonnes of sugar per month.
• Bulk consumers are allowed to hold only 15 days' stock from September 1, 2026, until November 30, 2026.
• The new stock limit covers confectionery makers, soft drink manufacturers, food processing companies and sweet sellers.
• Bulk consumers will be identified based on their average monthly sugar consumption over the past one year.
• The government will monitor sugar sales from mills to bulk consumers, including direct sales and sales through dealers.
• Compliance will be checked using GST returns and the HSN code for sugar.
• Institutions belonging to central and state governments, Union Territory administrations and local bodies are exempt from the order.
• The measure aims to prevent sugar hoarding, improve supplies and keep prices under control during the festive season.